Unlocking Your Home Security System: Keys or Keypads?

When it comes to your home security system, there will always be one basic rule you must adhere to in order to keep your home secured: lock all exterior doors when you leave, or when you go to sleep. And it used to be, when you left your house, you needed those all-important keys to both lock up behind you, and unlock your doors upon your return. In those days, who you trusted with your key ring equaled who you trusted with your home security. But with all the new developments in home security systems and the types of locks readily available to consumers nowadays, the choice of what types of locks work best for you and your home security system can be confusing. What follows focuses on two of the most popular choices: conventional keys and keypads.

Conventional locks, including deadbolts, are relatively easy to install. Many homeowners prefer them because they can mount them in the door themselves instead of having to call in a locksmith to do this for them. Furthermore, conventional locks come with a set of keys – something most of us carry with us as if it were second nature. Nearly all of us were taught by our parents to lock the door behind us when we leave the home, and for those who appreciate the ritual of turning the key in the lock and checking to see if it’s secure, keys can be perfect. Keys are easy to replace when they’re lost, and they’re the one item you think twice about before lending them to somebody. However, keys can also easily be misplaced, so for the scatterbrained geniuses amongst us, they might not be the best option.

Keypads, on the other hand, require a bit more expertise to install, and most homeowners prefer not to do this themselves. However, once installed, keypads are a great addition to your home security system, because after the door falls shut behind you, it’s locked and can only be opened with your personal code. Additionally, keypads only require you to remember a code – usually a series of numbers – so if you have a memory for numbers, a keypad might be just the thing for you. Additionally, if there are a number of people in your household, a keypad can offer the advantage of allowing access without having to make multiple sets of keys, as well as allowing you to regularly reset access codes for added security.

In short, the choice whether to use keypads or conventional locks is entirely personal. Before you commit to one or the other option for your home security system, evaluate your household’s needs and choose what works best for you.